22nd May 2015
Dear Parents,
On Monday, the Educational Panel and Cabinet of Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) met and took the decision to proceed to the statutory notice stage on the proposed expansion of William Ransom. You may have already seen an article in yesterday's Hitchin Comet. [read here]
This decision does not come as a surprise to us, as we have been working hard with HCC over the last few months. We have outlined to them the facilities needed to support any such increase in pupil numbers and discussions are continuing to ensure we receive the necessary assurances concerning the financial stability of the school, especially during the transitional seven years to full capacity. Of course the continued outstanding provision of education underpins all discussions.
Our current understanding of the timeline of key dates is as follows (this is still subject to confirmation from HCC):
~ From 25 May to 25 June – a further period of public consultation will take place asking for comments on the decision made by HCC on Monday, to expand the school to two form entry.
~ The last week of June / first week of July – a public information evening at the school hosted by HCC
~ 13 July – final decision by Cabinet of HCC
~ End July / early August – statutory town planning process will commence, during which parents and members of the public will be invited to express their views.
Our next meeting with HCC is in the week following half term, and when we are able to provide confirmation of dates, we will do so.
Whilst in principal the Governing Body is positive about the possible expansion, we would only be able to support the proposal once all conditions material to ensuring excellent educational standards, have been met. It is hoped the relevant confirmations will be received from HCC prior to the end of this further period of consultation on 25 June.
If you do wish to provide any comments/feedback to the Governing Body at this stage, please do email governors@wransom.herts.sch.uk.
Yours sincerely
Mary Driver
Headteacher
Ian Hankin
Chair of Governors